Former NRL star Israel Folau is set to return to the rugby league arena later this year, and will represent Tonga in matches against Great Britain and Australia.

Folau was sacked back in May by Rugby Australia following homophobic comments on his social media page.

Despite the NRL refusing Folau a place back in the league, the 30-year-old would be free to represent Tonga in these matches, given they are sanctioned by the Rugby League International Federation.

โ€œIโ€™m so grateful to have the opportunity to represent God, my family, my heritage and the people of Tonga. I am thankful that the RLIF have accepted my availability to play,โ€ Folau said in a TNRL media release.

โ€œI donโ€™t want to bring any of my personal matters into this and I am grateful that the RLIF have endorsed my availability.

โ€œWhat I will do now is focus on playing great rugby league and do my talking on the field.โ€

These matches take place on October 26 and November 2.

9 COMMENTS

  2. Yeah you are right. Just look at Flanagan and he is let back after a year and all Folau did was say in a reasonable way what he personally believed in. Give me free speech over drug abuse, salary cap cheating and ban breaking anyday.

  4. Would be good to see Folau back playing club footy everyone is entitled to their opinion I don’t think Folau should’ve been banned from the NRL he didn’t breach a contract with us. I’m glad to see Tonga and RLIF allow him to play.

  7. I’m no pope supporter but it is my example to point out this ridiculous ban by the League is way over the top.

    If they keep this up all the Catholic schools will put a ban on playing Rugby League.

  9. No, Rugby League is not higher than the pope but it seems like Political Correctness is the new God.

    The NRL’s stance on Issy is looking increasingly vindictive and silly. He should be allowed to play.

Comments are closed.